Lack of memory chips and rising prices on the global market are forcing some smartphone producers in China to use components recycled by old equipment for producing new phones.

Because of the difficulties in obtaining new chips, manufacturers have begun to buy damaged telephones and old electronic devices from which they extract components that can be reused. Among the equipment that serves as a source for these chips are old iPhone models.

This activity has focused on Shenzhen, China, where electronic equipment recycling companies are benefiting from increased demand for used parts. They buy old phones, dismantle them, and test memory chips to determine if they can be installed on other devices.

According to media reports, the price of a new memory chip could reach up to $75, making it too expensive for free class phones. Under these circumstances, producers are seeking alternatives that enable them to lower production costs.

An example of this activity is a company that bought about 1,000 damaged phones and managed to extract functional chips from more than 600.

However, recycled components are not usually used in high-level phones, but in the most economic models, where lowering costs is crucial for the final price of equipment.

The recycling process is not simple. The chips must be carefully removed from the electronic plates, cleaned, and tested to verify the proper operation. It should also ensure their compliance with the devices to be installed.

Using old components can help producers cope with lack of supplies and keep costs under control. However, this practice may be temporary, as an improved supply of new chips and price reductions can make recycling less profitable.

Developments show that the lack of electronic components is affecting not only large producers but also the segment of cheaper phones, promoting alternative solutions to continue production. /Telegraphy/